Principal Solar Farm Operations Manager

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 2.000.000 - 2.800.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary package

Medical and dental insurance

Strong retirement fund

Performance-based incentives

Generous paid time off

Life insurance

Wellness programs

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Principal Solar Farm Operations Manager to oversee a portfolio of solar farms in Durban and surrounding regions. You will lead operational excellence, optimize energy generation, manage budgets, and drive safety and environmental compliance across large-scale PV installations.

The role requires 10+ years in operations with 5+ years in solar energy, strong leadership, and deep PV/SCADA knowledge. Travel within the Durban area is expected.

Qualifikationen

• 10+ years in operations management with 5+ years in solar energy or utility-scale projects.
• Experience leading large-scale PV farms and related infrastructure.
• Strong knowledge of SCADA, inverters, grid interconnection and PV tech.
• Proven budget, contract and vendor management experience.
• Willingness to travel within Durban region and posses a valid driver’s license.

Aufgaben

• Direct day-to-day operations of multiple solar farms.
• Develop strategies to maximize energy generation and minimize downtime.
• Oversee maintenance, repair and inspections of PV equipment.
• Manage budgets and ensure cost targets are met.
• Ensure HSE compliance and environmental regulations.
• Lead and mentor operations and maintenance teams.
• Engage suppliers, contractors and stakeholders.

Kenntnisse

Leadership

Budget management

Vendor management

Communication

Performance analysis

HSE knowledge

Travel willingness

Renewable energy expertise

Ausbildung

Bachelors in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Masters or MBA (advantage)

Tools

SCADA systems

PV performance monitoring tools

Inverters knowledge

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a leader in sustainable energy infrastructure, is looking for a seasoned Principal Solar Farm Operations Manager to oversee and optimize the performance of their extensive solar farm portfolio across Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , and surrounding regions. This senior management position demands exceptional leadership, technical acumen, and strategic planning skills to ensure the efficient, safe, and profitable operation of multiple large-scale photovoltaic (PV) installations. You will be responsible for managing operational budgets, leading maintenance and repair teams, implementing performance monitoring systems, and ensuring compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing complex energy assets and a deep understanding of solar PV technology, grid integration, and asset management best practices. This role is crucial for maximizing energy output, minimizing downtime, and ensuring the long-term viability and profitability of our solar assets. You will play a key role in driving operational excellence and innovation within the renewable energy sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage the day-to-day operations of multiple solar farms.
• Develop and implement strategies to maximize energy generation and minimize downtime.
• Oversee all maintenance, repair, and inspection activities for solar PV equipment.
• Manage operational budgets, ensuring cost-efficiency and financial targets are met.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Implement and manage advanced performance monitoring and data analysis systems.
• Lead, train, and mentor operational and maintenance teams.
• Develop and manage relationships with key suppliers, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Conduct regular site assessments and performance reviews.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and continuous improvement of operational processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• A Master's degree or MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in operations management, with at least 5 years specifically in the solar energy industry or utility-scale renewable energy projects.
• Demonstrated experience managing large-scale PV solar farms and associated infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of solar PV technology, inverters, SCADA systems, and grid interconnection requirements.
• Proven experience in budget management, contract negotiation, and vendor management.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in performance analysis tools and techniques.
• Knowledge of relevant health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards and regulations.
• Ability to travel to various sites as needed within the Durban region and surrounding areas.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be legally authorized to work in KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• competitive salary package
• comprehensive medical and dental insurance
• a strong retirement fund
• performance-based incentives
• generous paid time off
• life insurance
• wellness programs

Our client provides a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, a strong retirement fund, and performance-based incentives. We are committed to employee development through extensive training programs and opportunities for advancement within a rapidly growing company. Benefits also include generous paid time off, life insurance, and wellness programs. Join an innovative team dedicated to advancing renewable energy solutions and contributing to a sustainable future. This role offers the chance to make a significant impact on the operational success of our renewable energy assets.